As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers get set to open training camp, all eyes will be on the wide receiver room and most notably, veteran Chris Godwin and rookie Emeka Egbuka. Godwin, a cornerstone of the Bucs' organization, remains focused on rehabbing a dislocated ankle. With Godwin sidelined, first-round pick (19th overall) Emeka Egbuka suddenly finds himself under a brighter spotlight.
Bucs WR Chris Godwin, who still is recovering from a dislocated ankle, will not participate in team related activities to begin training camp. He will continue to rehab with trainers.
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) July 21, 2025
“Bucs WR Chris Godwin, who still is recovering from a dislocated ankle, will not participate in team related activities to begin training camp. He will continue to rehab with trainers.”
Godwin’s injury and how it affects the offense
Chris Godwin’s 2024 season ended early after a severe left ankle injury in Week 7. The injury required surgery plus a lengthy recovery, which amounts to Godwin still not being cleared for team activities as we approach the beginning of training camp. He continues to train indoors with the Bucs' medical staff, with hopes of being ready to go for Week 1 of the regular season.
Godwin’s absence is a big blow for Tampa. In just seven games last year, he caught 50 passes for 576 yards and five touchdowns, ranking among the top wideouts in the league in several receiving categories before the injury. His consistency and ability to move the chains are vital for this Bucs offense. Godwin has bounced back from injuries before, tapping into his toughness and determination, but the team is wise to prioritize his long-term health.
Immediate Pressure on Emeka Egbuka in Godwin’s absence
With Godwin sidelined at the moment, former Ohio State standout, Emeka Egbuka will now face even heavier expectations. Drafted 19th overall, Egbuka was already expected to play a big role as a rookie. Now, that role has grown even larger. Everyone in Tampa Bay is eager to see if he can help fill the gap until Godwin returns to full speed.
Egbuka impressed coaches early on, showing off advanced route-running skills, quick feet and reliable hands. As competition heats up at receiver, Egbuka’s performance in camp will be under an intense microscope.
What Egbuka brings polish and versatility. At Ohio State, he set the school record for career receptions (205) and was known for his ability to find soft spots in coverage. He plays bigger than his size and can line up inside or outside. Egbuka skillset should allow the Bucs to get creative and use him in multiple spots due to his versatility.
Godwin’s absence means the Bucs must adjust. Mike Evans remains their top target, but Egbuka, Jalen McMillan, Sterling Shepard and Tez Johnson will all compete for snaps. Egbuka has the chance to carve out a meaningful role right away, but the pressure is real. If he can step up and answer the call, this Bucs offense could be one of the more potent passing attacks in the league.